The South Dakota State Fair will entertain adults and children alike.  A midway packed with rides, a grandstand featuring top notch music, and all the fair foods you remember will greet you at the South Dakota State Fair.

History

The South Dakota State Fair dates back to the year 1885 when the Territorial Legislature voted to institute an "Annual Territorial Fair." Each of the larger towns in the territory competed to hold the fair in their city each year.  The city of Huron won the first year, and the inaugural state fair was held there from September 29 to October 2, 1885.  The fair was held in different cities including Sioux Falls, Mitchell, Aberdeen and others until 1905, when the State Fair permanently settled in Huron.

Attractions

The South Dakota State Fair is one of the largest agricultural fairs in the United States.  It features a wide variety of livestock, static, horticulture, art and education, FFA (Future Farmers of America), and 4-H exhibits. Farm equipment and livestock dealers display the latest in agricultural technology and equipment.  11 South Dakota wineries are represented, and the Dakota Flavor Marketplace lets fairgoers try out speciality products made in the state.

As well as agricultural exhibits, over 350 vendors display their products and services at the South Dakota State Fair, while 60 food vendors serve over 300 menu items. For kids, the South Dakota State Fair has the largest carnival in the state, and for adults there are special events like a chili and BBQ beef cook-offs, and barrel races.

The South Dakota State Fair is held in early September each year, and gate admission is free after 8:00 PM!